Gnathonemus petersii
The elephant nose fish is one of the most unique fish in the hobby. Their “trunk” (which is their most defining characteristic) is used to prod for food in riverbeds. It is essential to have sand (or soft substrate) at the bottom of their tank in order for them to continue this behavior. Additionally these fish can both produce and recognize electric fields. They use this to effectively travel in their natural habitat’s murky water and to recognize surrounding fish in their area. Mormyrids (which include the elephant nose fish) have large brains and has similar processing power as the human brain. Because of this, these fish are the subject of study in academia.
Elephant nose fish are relatively peaceful however they are territorial toward their own species and do not mix well with other Mormyrids. It is recommended to either keep one or 5 plus (in a tank large enough) otherwise the weaker fish will be outcompeted by stronger fish. Please note they are sensitive to water and environment changes like other scaleless fish.
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Scientific Name: Gnathonemus petersii
Common Name: Elephantnose Fish
Origin: Nigeria
Shipped Size: 3”+
*This photo represents the species of fish you will receive, NOT the exact fish pictured. Before purchase please read our shipping policy
The elephant nose fish is one of the most unique fish in the hobby. Their “trunk” (which is their most defining characteristic) is used to prod for food in riverbeds. It is essential to have sand (or soft substrate) at the bottom of their tank in order for them to continue this behavior. Additionally these fish can both produce and recognize electric fields. They use this to effectively travel in their natural habitat’s murky water and to recognize surrounding fish in their area. Mormyrids (which include the elephant nose fish) have large brains and has similar processing power as the human brain. Because of this, these fish are the subject of study in academia.
Elephant nose fish are relatively peaceful however they are territorial toward their own species and do not mix well with other Mormyrids. It is recommended to either keep one or 5 plus (in a tank large enough) otherwise the weaker fish will be outcompeted by stronger fish. Please note they are sensitive to water and environment changes like other scaleless fish.
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Scientific Name: Gnathonemus petersii
Common Name: Elephantnose Fish
Origin: Nigeria
Shipped Size: 3”+
*This photo represents the species of fish you will receive, NOT the exact fish pictured. Before purchase please read our shipping policy